Honouring a rock legend: Bon Scott’s 80th anniversary in gold and silver

Jul 7, 2026

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Few voices in rock history are as instantly recognisable or as fiercely celebrated as that of Ronald Belford “Bon” Scott. A charismatic frontman and one of Australia’s greatest musical exports, Bon Scott’s influence continues to reverberate across generations.

In 2026, Bon Scott would have celebrated his 80th birthday—a milestone that offers a fitting moment to honour the legendary singer who helped propel AC/DC onto the world stage.

To commemorate this iconic Australian and his enduring legacy, The Perth Mint proudly presents the Bon Scott 80th Anniversary 2026 1g Gold and 10g Silver Minted Bars.

From Fremantle to the world stage

Born in Scotland in 1946, Bon Scott emigrated with his family to Western Australia as a child, growing up in Fremantle, a port city whose gritty spirit would later echo through his music. Before achieving global fame, Scott explored a variety of musical paths, ultimately joining AC/DC in 1974 and helping shape the band’s irreverent style, storytelling lyrics and electrifying performances.

Armed with sharp wit, boundless energy and one of rock’s most distinctive voices, Scott became the catalyst for AC/DC’s rise. Albums released during his time with the band—High Voltage, T.N.T., Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, Let There Be Rock, Powerage, If You Want Blood You’ve Got It, and Highway To Hell —cemented AC/DC’s reputation as one of the most powerful forces in music. His impact was later recognised internationally, with Classic Rock magazine ranking Scott number one in its 2004 list of the 100 Greatest Frontmen of All Time and Hit Parader placing him in the top five of its 2006 list of the 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Vocalists of All Time.

Though Bon Scott’s life was tragically cut short in 1980, his powerful legacy and influence continues to resonate through the sound and spirit of rock music today.

A tribute struck in precious metal

The Bon Scott 80th Anniversary 2026 1g Gold and 10g Silver Minted Bars are a bold celebration of Bon Scott’s life crafted for collectors, investors, music lovers and fans of Australian cultural history alike.

The coin’s reverse features the Bon Scott logo and crest, incorporating a lion rampant holding a microphone with its tongue out. Included in the design is the inscription “BON SCOTT 80 YEARS” along with The Perth Mint’s “P” mintmark.

Perth Mint designer Lucas Bowers said it was a privilege to create a commemorative piece honouring one of Australia’s most influential musicians.

Designing a bar to celebrate Bon Scott’s 80th anniversary was a real honour,” Bowers said. 

“Bon is a true rock legend whose influence on music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and this design was approached with great respect for his impact on Australian culture.”

— Lucas Bowers

Celebrating an iconic Australian

Eighty years on from his birth, Bon Scott remains one of Australia’s most influential musical icons, whose voice and songwriting helped shape the sound of hard rock worldwide.

His voice still rings out in stadiums, his lyrics still resonate with fans old and new, and his story continues to inspire.

Through the release of the Bon Scott 80th Anniversary 2026 1g Gold and 10g Silver Minted Bars, The Perth Mint proudly honours a true Australian rock legend, immortalised in precious metal forever.

To purchase yours today, visit perthmint.com